Salak, acquired from the Panthers last May along with Michael Frolik, is the early favorite to back up Corey Crawford for the Blackhawks in 2011-12. Crawford blossomed last season, but if he falters then Salak could make a mark on the club. In 2010-11, he stopped pucks in the Swedish Elite League, appearing in 32 games with seven shutouts, a 1.97 goals-against average and .926 save percentage. Still, even if he wins the backup job in Chicago, Salak is not likely to see enough action between the pipes to warrant a serious look in fantasy leagues.

2010-11

Salak recorded more time between the pipes than anyone belonging to the Rochester Americans (the Panthers' AHL affiliate) in the 2009-10 regular season. He won 29 games for the Amerks, posting a 2.89 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Instead of reporting to the minors again this season, Salak will stop pucks with Farjestads BK Karlstad of the Swedish Elite League in 2010-11.